Definitions

pilot

[pahy-luht] / ˈpaɪ lət /

NOUN

person who guides aircraft, ship, or other vehicle

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aviator captain flier leader navigator

STRONG

ace aerialist aeronaut bellwether conductor coxswain dean director eagle flyer guide jockey lead scout steerer

WEAK

doyen/doyenne helmsperson one at the controls one at the wheel steersperson wheelperson

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That 15-page document said the fuel supply to the jet's engines was cut off moments before impact, raising questions about possible pilot error.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

At issue is a technology little known outside pilot world.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Air Force colonel with more than 27 years of experience as an instructor pilot, fighter pilot, and test pilot.

From Science Daily • Jun. 11, 2026

Oklo is one of nearly a dozen companies selected for a federal pilot program in 2025.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

“We’re too low on fuel,” said the pilot.

From "Mountain of Fire" by Rebecca E. F. Barone

Vocabulary lists containing pilot

May the 4th Be With You: Star Wars Words

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This Week in Words: September 1 - 7, 2018

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Occupations

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